CVE-2012-3741 in iOS
Summary
by MITRE
The Restrictions (aka Parental Controls) implementation in Apple iOS before 6 does not properly handle purchase attempts after a Disable Restrictions action, which allows local users to bypass an intended Apple ID authentication step via an app that performs purchase transactions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/13/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2012-3741 resides within Apple iOS versions prior to 6.0, specifically affecting the Restrictions or Parental Controls feature implementation. This flaw represents a critical security oversight in the mobile operating system's authentication mechanisms, creating a pathway for unauthorized access to paid application purchases. The vulnerability manifests when a user attempts to make in-app purchases following a Disable Restrictions action, effectively undermining the intended security controls designed to prevent unauthorized transactions.
The technical flaw stems from improper handling of authentication states within the iOS framework when transitioning between enabled and disabled restriction modes. When users disable parental controls through the Settings application, the system should enforce proper Apple ID authentication for any subsequent purchase attempts. However, the implementation fails to maintain consistent authentication checks, allowing local users to bypass this critical security step. This vulnerability specifically affects the interaction between the Restrictions system and the in-app purchase framework, creating a window where unauthorized transactions can occur without proper authentication.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized purchases, as it represents a fundamental breakdown in iOS's security architecture. Attackers can exploit this flaw to make unauthorized in-app purchases without proper Apple ID credentials, potentially leading to financial loss for users and creating opportunities for abuse within the App Store ecosystem. The vulnerability affects all iOS devices running versions before 6.0, making it particularly concerning given the widespread adoption of these older iOS versions at the time of discovery. This flaw essentially allows attackers to circumvent Apple's intended transaction controls, undermining the security model that protects users from unauthorized purchases.
Security researchers have classified this vulnerability under CWE-284, which addresses improper access control issues in software implementations. The flaw demonstrates inadequate privilege management during state transitions within the iOS system, where the restriction status change does not properly enforce authentication requirements for subsequent actions. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and credential theft, as it allows local users to bypass authentication mechanisms that should protect against unauthorized transactions. The vulnerability also relates to T1546.001, which covers changes to system binaries or services, as the improper handling of restriction states affects the core system functionality that governs user access controls.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability primarily involve upgrading to iOS 6.0 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the authentication flow issues. Users should also regularly update their devices to ensure they receive the latest security patches from Apple. System administrators should monitor for devices running older iOS versions and ensure proper update policies are in place. Additionally, users should be educated about the risks of disabling parental controls and the potential for unauthorized purchases. Organizations implementing mobile device management solutions should verify that their iOS devices are properly configured to prevent unauthorized restriction changes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper state management in security-critical systems and demonstrates how seemingly simple transitions between authentication states can create significant security risks when not properly implemented.